Transport of Animals

When animals are transported, it is important to follow these rules to keep them safe and comfortable.

• Planned Journey: The trip is well-planned to be as short as possible. Animals are checked regularly, and their needs are taken care of during the trip.
• Safe Vehicles and Facilities: Vehicles and loading/unloading areas are built and kept in good condition to prevent injury and suffering.
• Trained Handlers: People who handle the animals are trained and know what they are doing. They do not use violence or do anything that might scare or hurt the animals.
• Food, Water, and Rest: Animals are given water, food, and rest when needed. They have enough space to move around and enough headroom.
• Healthy to Travel: Only animals that are healthy and fit to travel are transported.

These rules apply:

• To the transport of all animals (except pets and non-commercial transport, animals travelling accompanied) by road, sea, air or rail;
• From the moment animals are loaded on a vehicle, through to their care during transport, and unloading at their destination.

The Regulation also applies to those working at:

• Markets
• Assembly centres
• Slaughterhouses

The Regulation does not apply to the transport of animals:

• Where the transport is not in connection with an economic activity;
• Transport to or from veterinary practices or clinics under veterinary advice; where the animal is an individual animal accompanied by its owner (or other responsible person) and is fit for journey; or
• Where animals are pet animals accompanied by their owner on a private journey.

Legislation

The above guidelines are provided by the Welfare of Animals (Transport) England Order 2006.

Certain documents must accompany animals during transport, including details of the journey and the animals being transported.

• Training and Certification:
  • People involved in transporting animals must be trained and hold a certificate of competence.
  • This ensures they understand how to care for animals during transport.
  • To export horses or ponies from Great Britain you will need to apply for an Export Health Certificate.